Whether you’re just beginning to explore options or already touring homes, this Q&A walks you through what first-time buyers need to know — from choosing between new construction and resale homes to financing options and move-in timelines. Along the way, you’ll discover how Gladden Farms makes homeownership achievable for first-time buyers — all within a community voted one of Arizona’s best.

Q: Is it a good time to buy a home?

After years of rising prices driven by limited inventory, the housing market is finally shifting in buyers’ favor. Thanks to a surge in new construction, more homes are hitting the market, giving first-time buyers greater choice — and leverage.

While mortgage rates are likely to hold steady in the near term, Gladden Farms builders consistently offer incentives that can reduce your monthly payments, often to a rate similar to — or even below — average Tucson rent for comparable square footage. Talk to your builder to learn about incentives like interest rate buy-downs and closing cost assistance, so you can start investing in your future and building your equity — instead of your landlord’s.

Q: Is buying a home at Gladden Farms a good investment?

A: Very much so. In fact, resale values in Gladden Farms have outperformed those of Greater Tucson by 30% over the past five years. That makes the community not just a wonderful place to live, but a smart investment too.

Q: Are newly built homes more expensive than pre-owned homes?

A: While new construction once carried a hefty price tag — over $100,000 more than resale in 2019 — the gap has narrowed dramatically, putting new builds well within reach of first-time buyers.

At Gladden Farms, new construction homes start in the low $300Ks, right in line with Tucson’s $332,167 median sales price in June 2025 — and well-below Marana’s $440,581 median price. This means you can enjoy a modern layout, the latest energy-efficient technology and stylish finishes for roughly the same price as a pre-owned home.

It’s no wonder that 50% of our buyers are first-time homeowners, many of them families with young children thrilled to find more space and a great price in a safe, family-focused community.

Q: What are the benefits of a new construction versus pre-owned home?

A: New construction homes, like those in Gladden Farms, come backed by a builder warranty and arrive in pristine condition for stress-free living. That means no unexpected costs for a new roof or to fix outdated plumbing, so you can start homeownership on solid ground.

You can also customize flooring, cabinets and appliances and add features not easily found in resale homes, including oversized RV garages and guest suites with separate entry.

Pre-owned homes can certainly be charming, with mature landscaping and in established neighborhoods close to community resources. But trade-offs often include traditional floorplans with separated rooms, smaller spaces, limited storage and dated finishes. Though fixer-uppers are an opportunity to build sweat equity, that requires time and expertise — something busy parents and professionals may not have.

As a master-planned community, Gladden Farms bridges the gap, offering brand-new homes in an established neighborhood designed for convenience and connectivity. You’ll find two community schools, shopping, easy access to the I-10 and Downtown Marana — plus lush greenery, shaded walking paths and abundant parks. Here you can skip the weekend repairs and enjoy life from day one.

Q: Should I buy a quick move-in home or build from scratch?

A: Both options have perks. Quick move-in homes are already built or nearly complete, so you can often close within 60 days and move in within weeks of starting your search. Though you won’t get to choose your floor plan or finishes, quick move-ins are a great option for those relocating for work or families needing to settle before school starts. Pricing can be lower than a full build, and, if you secure a model home, you’re likely in for even more savings.

On the other hand, building from the ground up lets you customize your floor plan, finishes and location, typically taking 5-6 months. For the choosy homebuyer with both time and vision, this is the best way to ensure that every detail is just the way you want it. However, a longer timeline can also extend rental payments while your home is being completed.

At Gladden Farms, you’ll find both options throughout the community. With 35+ floor plans available, you’ll be spoiled for choice!

Q: Which type of loan is best for me?

A: The right loan depends on your personal situation:

• Conventional loans are the most common, offered by private lenders and requiring strong credit and a larger down payment to secure the best rates.
• FHA loans are popular with first-time buyers since they allow lower credit scores, a higher debt-to-income ratio and down payments as low as 3.5%.
• VA loans are available to qualified veterans and reservists. Backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, these loans require no down payment and no private mortgage insurance.
• USDA loans are solely for homes in rural-designated areas. This program lets you finance 100% of the purchase price with no down payment plus competitive interest rates and flexible terms for buyers with less-than-perfect credit. Check the address on the USDA property eligibility map before applying.

And don’t forget: Our builders offer financing programs that often come in well below market rates, giving you multiple paths to affordable homeownership. Many also offer low down payment options, first-time buyer grants and educational resources. Your sales representative and preferred lender can help guide you to programs that best fit your financial situation.

Q: Are there any local programs that support first-time homebuyers?

A: Definitely. In the state of Arizona, you can apply for the Arizona is Home down payment assistance program if you have not owned real estate in the last three years. With this program, homebuyers at 80% or below Area Median Income (AMI) can receive up to $30,000 in assistance, so long as you attend a homebuyer education class and meet with a designated advisor.

Pima County homebuyers are also eligible for the Tucson Welcome Home program, a $0 down payment program created in partnership with the GoWest Credit Union Association and six Tucson credit unions. The program only requires that you are an employed, first-time homebuyer in Pima County who meets the credit and income requirements.

Q: What are HOA fees, and what do they cover?

A: HOA (Homeowner Association) fees are monthly or quarterly payments that help maintain a neighborhood, from basic landscaping to upkeep of shared spaces, roads and signage.

At Gladden Farms, HOA fees help maintain our beautiful parks, trails and landscaped common areas. They also support over 60 community events each year, including holiday festivals, outdoor movie nights, gardening workshops, fitness activities and much, much more. It’s these lively, all-ages events that truly set Gladden Farms apart as Marana’s best neighborhood for families.

In our gated Coronet neighborhood, dues also cover access to a resort-style pool and a private fitness center at the clubhouse — giving you the perks of a gym membership just steps from home for convenience and savings.

When you add it all up, HOA fees are an investment in both your home’s long-term value and your family’s lifestyle. Though the exact amount varies depending on the neighborhood, the value goes right back into keeping Gladden Farms looking and feeling like home.

Interested in learning more? Read about the Gladden Farms Community Association here and check out our event photo gallery for snapshots of some of our favorite moments!

Q: How are the schools in the area?

A: Gladden Farms is part of the highly regarded Marana Unified School District, with top-rated schools close to home — a major draw for families. In 2025, the neighborhood celebrated the opening of Tangerine Farms K-8, conveniently located next to neighborhoods now selling. It joins our beloved Gladden Farms Elementary in offering modern facilities and walkable access for our students.

The district continues to earn recognition for some of the fastest-growing achievement levels in Arizona. Check out our back-to-school guide to education in Marana for everything you need to know.

Q: What kinds of homes and neighborhoods are available at Gladden Farms?

A: From one-story starter homes to spacious designs for growing families, you’ll find a variety of floorplans and price points to suit your budget and lifestyle. Choose from a gated neighborhood with private pool or park-side communities with easy access to the Chuck Huckelberry Loop, baseball diamonds, soccer fields, dog parks, a community garden and more. With Gladden Farms in its final phase of development, now is a great time to join a community that feels like home.

Q: Can I tour model homes without an appointment?

A: Yes! Gladden Farms offers several convenient ways to explore designed to fit your schedule and comfort level. You can visit a sales office, schedule a private appointment or take advantage of self-guided home tours. Visit our builders’ websites for more information or navigate directly to our models for showings.

About Gladden Farms

Big-city access meets small-town charm at Gladden Farms. Here you’ll find affordable new construction and quick move-in homes located just minutes from brand-new schools, retail and the I‑10 to Tucson and Phoenix. Nestled in the heart of Marana — one of Arizona’s fastest-growing areas — Gladden Farms is the perfect place to stop renting and start owning. With smart, open-concept layouts and flexible spaces for a home office, entertaining or a growing family, Gladden Farms has a floor plan for your lifestyle — and your future. Find your perfect fit today.  Model homes are open daily.